Generals go for kill in NCAA men’s volleyball finals

MANILA, Philippines – Emilio Aguinaldo College shoots for the jugular while Perpetual Help the equalizer as the two face off anew in Game Two of the 91st NCAA men's volleyball finals at The Arena in San Juan City on Friday.

Leaning on Howard Mojica's exploits, the Generals turned back the Altas, 25-22, 14-25, 25-14, 25-16, Tuesday to seize a 1-0 edge and move a win closer from capturing their second straight crown.

"We're focused of getting it in Game Two," said EAC coach Rodrigo Palmero in Filipino.

Mojica was on the firing end of that series opening victory after he uncorked a match-best 22 hits, most of which came in the final two sets when the Generals zapped the last fight out of the Altas.

The reigning MVP, who is tipped to win a second one in today's awarding of the league's best achievers, is expected to be the focal point of EAC's attack again although Perpetual Help mentor Sammy Acaylar said they are looking for ways to slow him down.

"If we can make it a little harder for him (Mojica), we'll have a chance," said Acaylar.

A deciding Game Three, if necessary, is on Tuesday, same venue.

In juniors' play, Perpetual Help likewise guns for the clincher as it tackles EAC in their own best-of-three series.

The Junior Altas routed the Brigadiers, 25-13, 25-18, 25-16, in Game One to move on the cusp of a back-to-back crown.

Meanwhile, St. Benilde aims to ride the crest of its stunning 24-26, 25-21, 25-19, 25-13 win over San Sebastian in Game One as it seeks another win in their women's title series that was reduced to a best-of-three.

San Sebastian came into the finals boasting of a "thrice-to-beat" edge after it swept the elimination round but its advantage was negated by St. Benilde following the latter's Game One win.